U-M proposes more wheelchair accessibility for stadium

ANN ARBOR -- The University of Michigan on Monday proposed offering more wheelchair accessible seating at its football stadium following a federal report saying the facility violates the law.

If the school's proposal is accepted, the number of accessible seats would increase to about 592 by the 2010 season. That includes the current 90 accessible seats, 207 seats as part of its expansion project and 295 additional seats.

"The university will supplement current platforms in the stadium for wheelchairs and companion seats by constructing and installing in the bowl of the stadium the maximum number of places for wheelchair users and companion seats that are structurally feasible," the school said in a letter to the U.S. Department of Education.

The department said in a report to the university last month that the school continues to violate a law requiring wheelchair accessibility at Michigan Stadium and risks losing millions in financial aid.

The Education Department said Monday its Office for Civil Rights is reviewing the university's letter.